WO2015013769A1

WO2015013769A1 - A combination barbecue

Info

Publication number: WO2015013769A1
Application number: PCT/AU2014/050165
Authority: WO
Inventors: Kevin John MCQUILLAN
Original assignee: Mcquillan Kevin John
Priority date: 2013-08-01
Filing date: 2014-08-01
Publication date: 2015-02-05
Also published as: AU2014295918B2; AU2014295918A1; US20150034065A1; US9468336B2; NZ717532A; EP3027099A1; ZA201601404B; EP3027099A4

Abstract

A combination barbecue including a divergent stepped lower portion, at least one heating device removably locatable within the divergent stepped lower portion and a kettle portion locatable above the lower portion to form the combination barbecue.

Description

A COMBINATION BARBECUE TECHNIC AL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to cooking and heating devices and in particular to a combination barbecue.

BACKGROUND ART

[0002] Barbecues are commercially available and relatively well-known. Barbecues are available in a wide variety of configurations but are typically limited to one cooking style. There are limitations in the manner in which the user can use a barbecue which are generally related to the type of heating that is provided, namely gas, combustion beads or firewood,

[0003] There are also limitations on conventional barbecues that limit them to cooking or heating food rather than treating food in a particular way or other purposes such as for heating water that can be used for a shower,

[0004] It will be clearly understood that, if a prior art publication is referred to herein, this reference does not constitute an admission that the publication forms part of the common general knowledge in the art in Australia or in an other country.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0005] The present invention is directed to a combination barbecue, which may at least partially overcome at least one of the above entioned disadvantages or provide the consumer with a useful or commercial choice.

[0006] With the foregoing in view, the present invention in one form, resides broadly in a combination barbecue including a divergent stepped lower portion, at least one heating device removably locatable within the divergent stepped lower portion and a kettle portion beatable above the lower portion to form the combination barbecue.

[0007] The combinati on barbecue of the present invention will preferably include additional com onents which can be used together with the lower portion, kettle portion and at least one heating device as required, to achieve different purposes. The additional components will normally include a combination drip tray/lid, legs or a stand to support the barbecue above a surface, a grate/grill/pl ate or combination of these, support devices to support the grate/grill/plate or other devices suc as a frying pan or a wok or a kettle, as examples, and a heat exchange coil. [0008] The combination barbecue of the present invention is typically for cooking as well as use as a heating device as be explained further below. The combination barbecue is preferably configurable into different configurations and with one or more different components in order to perform different functions and allow cooking in different ways. The combination barbecue of the present invention will al so preferably allow the heating of water more or less directly so that the heated- water can be used as a part of an outdoor or relocatable shower for example, Further, the combinati on barbecue of the present invention can be used to treat food rather than "cook" food. For example, one food treatment method that can be applied using the combination barbecue of the present inventi on is smoking or drying food rather than "cooking" the food.

[0009] The combination barbecue of the present invention includes a divergent stepped lower portion. Typically the lower portion will have an open bottom and an open top. Both the open bottom and open top are in substantially planar planes which will generally be parallel to one another.

[0010] The lower portio is preferably adapted to have the at least one heating device removabl located relative thereto in order to provide heat within the lower portion and the barbecue. The at least one heating device is normally located within the lower portion, at least partially.

[0011 j The lower portion is preferably substantially circular when viewed in plan.

According to the preferred embodiment, a single step i s provided over the height of the lower portion. The step will preferably divide the lower portion into a lower divergent section and an upper divergent section.

[0012] The lower divergent section preferably diverges radially upwardly. A first upwardly extending and outwardly diverging wall is provided defining the lower divergent section with a laterally (outwardly) radiating step wall at an upper end thereof. Typically, the radiating step wall is substantiall horizontal but it may be angled upwardly away from a central axis of the lower divergent section. The radiating step wail may have a shape which is other than circular, but preferably, the radiating step wall is substantially annular.

[0013] A. second upwardl extending and outwardly diverging wall preferably extends from an outer edge of the radiating step wall. The second wall preferably also radiates outwardly from a central axis of the lower portion but typically, at a steeper angle than the lower di vergent section.

[0014] There will preferabl be at least one upper land portion located at o towards an upper end of the lower portion. Preferably, a first land portion will extend radially outward!y from an upper edge of the second upwardly ex tending and outwardly diverging wall. This first land portion is typi cally annular in configuration,

[00X5] Preferably, an upwardly extending wall extends from an outer edge of the first land portion.

[0016] A second land portion terminating at an outer free end or circumferential free edge w?il{ normally be provided extending from the upwardly extending wall.

[0017] This preferred configuration provides a pair of spaced apart land portions at an upper end of the lower portion. These land portions are particularly useful for resting portions of other components on in order to locate them relative to the lower portion.

[0018] According to a preferred embodiment, at least two and normally more than two openings are provided through the wail of the lower divergent section in order to mount the at least one heating device relative thereto. Preferably, any openings that are provided for this purpose are provided towards a lower edge of the lower portion and are normally spaced about the lower portion.

[0019] One or more pins or other engaging devices will typically extend through the openings in the wall of the lower portion in order to engage with supports on the at least one heating device. Cotter pi s, spring pins or similar devices may be used through or about the pins or other engaging devices inside the lower portion in order to prevent or minimise accidental dislodgement of the at least one heating device from the lower portion.

[0020] Although the above-described mounting assembly is preferred., any assembly mechanism or method to removably locate the at least one heating device relative to the lower portion can be used.

[00211 A portion of the wall of the lower portion adj acent to and in communication with the open bottom of the lower portion is preferably removed or absent to form a scallop opening in the sidewall. This will preferably allow the at least one heating device to be inserted into position within the lower opening and have a portion of the device extending laterally through the scallop opening. This will allow the at least one heating device to close the bottom opening of the lower portion.

[0022] The combination barbecue of the present invention also includes at least one heating device removably located within the divergent stepped lower portion. Any type or number of heating devices can be provided, Preferably, a primary heating device is located within the lower portion for the majority of configurations. A gas burner is particularly preferred for portability, ease of use, adjustability of heating and speed of heating.

[0023] The preferred gas burner will be of a type having a substantially circular or annular bod with a pattern of outlets therein and an elongate supply stem in order to supply gas to the outlets extending normally from one side of the circul ar or annular body . Thi s type of gas burner is relatively widely conventionally available. Preferably, the supply stem is inserted into the scallo opening in the lower portion with the circular body located within the lower portion through the open bottom of the portion.

[0024] The gas burner may have any number and configuration of outlets. For example, the gas burner may have more than one circular- ring on the circular body with outlets in one or more circular rings. It is not necessary that the body be circular but it is preferred that the shape of the body matches the open bottom of the lower portion,

[0025] More than one primary heating device can be provided if desired. Normally, appropriate connections are provided on the supply stem in order to allow connection of the gas burner to a gas supply, normally in the form of a gas bottle or similar,

[0026] The gas burner may be provided with a support pi ate i order to cl ose the opening at the bottom of the lower portion According to a preferred embodiment, the support plate will have one or more openings therein. The support plate is typically radially larger than the opening in the lower portion.

[0027J The support plate i s normally provided with at least two and preferably more than t wo, upstand portions about, but slightly inside the periphery of the support plate in order that the upstands can be received inside the lower portion. Typically, the upstands are substantially parallel to the lower upwardly extending and outwardly diverging wall. Each upstand portion will typically have at least one opening therethrough, The pins or other fastening or attachment devices described above will typically be inserted through the lower portion of the barbecue, and extend through an opening in one of the upstands in order to locate the prim ry heating device within the lower portion.

[0028] One or more secondary heating devices may be used in association with the primary heating device. According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the preferred secondary heating device is a heat exchange coil through which water can flow in order to heat the water hi the coil. Generally, one or more supports are provided to maintain the coil in its shape and also to support rotations of the coil in a spaced apart configuration for more effective heat transfer. The coil will typically be formed from a single length of tube which is wound in a helical shape and an inlet to the coil and an outlet from the coil are provided, with appropriate connections.

[0029] The inlet to the coil and the outlet from the coil will normally extend about the bottom of the lower portion through the preferred openings in the support plate. The coil will typically be located directly above the primary heatin device and will be adapted to heat the water as the water travels through the coil .

[0030] A lower drip tray is preferably provided. The lower drip tray is typically circular, matching the shape of the lower portion and the kettle portion of the barbecue. The lower dri tray is typically radially larger than the upper end of the lower portion and an open end of the kettle portion.

[0031 j There will typically be an upstanding wall extending about the drip tray which is continuous but spaced inwardly from the edge of the drip tray. Preferably, the upstanding wall is spaced inwardly from the edge of the drip tray sufficiently to allow the drip tray to be converted for use as a lid if necessary, according to some configurations of the combination barbecue. Preferably, a handle or other gripping means may be provided on the opposite side of the drip tray to the upstanding wall, particularl for use when the drip trays used as a lid.

[0032 j Normally, the combination barbecue of the present invention is mounted on a support frame including a number of legs. The legs may be attached to one another or alternatively, may be attached directly to the lower portion of the combination barbecue. It is preferred that the drip tra is mounted relative to the legs. Preferably, one or more support fingers or extensions extend from each of the legs and the drip tray is adapted to rest on the support fingers or extensi ns.

[00333 According to a preferred embodiment, the combination barbecue of the present invention may also include a support ring. The support ring is typically loeatable within the lower portion of the combination barbecue above the primary heater. The support ring is typically circular and is adapted to be directly supported by the lower portion, preferably by the annular step wall.

[0034J The combination barbecue of the present invention may further include at least one grate/grill/plate or a combination of these features may be provided in a single member.

Typically, any suc plate or member will be inserted into the lower portio onto either the support ring, one of the lands at the upper edge of the lower portion or a combinati on of both . [0035] Preferably, a number of plates will be provided having different confi urations including a whole plate, a whole grill plate and a half and half plate in which half of the plate is a grill and the other half is a plate,

[00361 An open support frame may be provided. This support frame may be placed above any plate or member inserted into the lower portion of the barbecue and will preferably support a pizza stone or similar thereon. Normally the open support frame will support the pizza stone or similar above the grate or grill or plate in order to allow circulation of heated air beneath the pizza stone or similar.

[0037] The combination barbecue of the present invention also includes a kettle portion locatable above the lower portion to form a cooking or heating device. The kettle portion may be used in either an upright or inverted configuration. When used in an upright configuration, that is with a closed top and an open bottom, the kettle portion preferably forms a lid for the lower portion and thereby forms a kettle-style barbecue. In the inverted configuration, that is with a closed bottom and an open top, the kettle portion forms a large pot and the drip tray can be inverted for use as a lid for this large pot,

[0038] Typically, the kettle portion will have an open end and a closed end as well as porti ons of different dimensions over its height Preferably, a first portion is provided adjacent the open end of the kettle portion which is substantially the same dimension as the upper part of the lower portion. Preferably, the first portion has a peripheral edge which can rest on the second or outer land of the lower portion. The first portion will typically be cylindrical. It will normally be of at least 10 cm in height and more likel y between 10 and 40 cm in height although any height could be used.

[0039] The first portion of the kettle portion may be hinged to the lower portion in order to allow a user to pivot the kettle portion upwardly from one side. Any configuratio of hinge can be used. It is also preferable that the hinge arrangement allows easy detachment of the kettle portion from the lower portion.

[0040] A second portion of the kettle portion is typically spaced concentrically inwardly from the first portion. The second portion is also preferably cylindrical but is typically less than 15 cm in height. The closed end of the kettle portion will normally be in the second portion. The closed end will normally be partially spherical, preferably tori spherical. Normally, the second portion is spaced concentrically inwardly from the first portion by an annular wall linking the first and second portions to give the kettle portion a stepped profile. [0041] In the inverted configuration, the second portion of the kettle portion is preferably received partially within the lower portion of the combination barbecue. The annular wall of the kettle portion preferably rests on the annular wall of the lower portion or one of the lands of the lower portion. In tins configuration, normally the drip tra is removed from below the lower portion and inverted for use as a lid to close the open end of the kettle portion.

[0042] Preferably one or more handles are provided on the kettle portion. A closure mechanism may be provided to allow the kettle portio to be attached to the lower portion in order to hold closed. The kettle portio may have one or more openings in one of the walls of the kettle portion in order to vent the kettle portion.

[0043] The combi nation barbecue of the present invention may further include a container with cover locatable in or on the drip tray for teffiporaiy storage. It is preferred that the container with cover will be capable of insertion into the lower portion of the combination harbecue as required. The container will typically be circular having a base wall and a cylindrical sidewall upstanding from the base wall. According to a preferred embodiment, the cover will be at least partially spherical. It is preferred that the container be sized such that the container can be received within, the upstanding wall on the drip tray in order to allow movement of the barbecue without dislodging the container.

[0044] It is further preferred that one or more support wings may be provided, particularly in relation to one or more of the legs of the combination barbecue upon which devices used with the barbecue can be located during use. In particular, it is preferred that a support wing be provided that attaches and detaches easil and quickly to an upper portion of one of the legs of the combination barbecue. This will allow items such as a plate or tray containing food to be rested on the support wing whilst using the barbecue to cook the food.

[0045] The portions the combination barbecue of the present invention are attached to one another in any way using any mechanism. This will typically allow the combinatio barbecue to be collapsed as much as possible of the. portions to be detached from one another to change the configuration of the combination barbecue for different uses.

[0046] Any of the features described herein can be combined in an combination with any^¬ one or more of the other features described herein within the scope of the invention.

[0047] The reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as an acknowledgement or any form of suggesti on that the prior art form s part of the co mon general knowledge. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

10048] Preferred features, embodiments and variations of the invention ma be discerned from the following Detailed Description whic provides sufficient information for those skilled in the art to perform the invention. The Detailed Description is not to be regarded as limiting the scope of the precedi ng Summary of the Invention i n any way . The Detailed Description will make reference to a number of drawings as follows:

[0049] Figure 1 is an isometric view of a combination barbecue according to a preferred embodiment of the present inventio connected to a conventional gas bottle,

[0050] Figure 2 i s an isometric view from the opposite side of the view illustrated in Figure 1.

[0051 ] Figure 3 is a side elevatio vie of an upper portion of the combination barbecue illustrated in Figure 1,

[0052] Figure 4 is a plan view of a lower portion of the combination barbecue illustrated in Figure 1.

[0053] Figure 5 is a plan view of a heating device according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention removed from the barbecue.

[0054] Figure 6 i s a plan isometric view of the lower portion of the combination barbecue illustrated in Figure 1 with the heating device in use condition.

[0055] Figure 7 is an isometric view of the barbecue illustrated in Figure 1 with the kettle portion raised.

[0056] Figure 8 is a detailed plan view of the heating device located in the lower portion of the barbecue illustrated in Figure 1.

[0057] Figure 9 is a detailed plan view of the lower portion of the barbecue illustrated in Figure I with a support ring located therein.

[005S] Figure 10 is a plan view of the reverse side of the drip tray/lid according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] Figure 1 1 is an isometric view of the barbecue illustrated in Figure 1 with the kettle portion in the inverted condition for use as a pot. [0060] Figure 12 is an isometric view of the configuration illustrated in Figure 1 1 with the lid applied.

[0061 j Figure 13 is an isometric view of the lower portion of the barbecue illustrated in Figure I with eKamples of plate or grill members which can be used with the configuration illustrated in Figure 9.

[0062] Figure 14 is a plan view of the barbecue illustrated in. Figure 9 with a half and half plate in position.

[0063] Figure 15 is a plan view of the barbecue illustrated in Figure 9 with a grill plate in position.

[0064] Figure 16 is a plan view of the barbecue illustrated in Figure 9 with a full plate in position.

[0065] Figure 17 is an isometric view of the barbecue illustrated in Figure 1 in the pizza cooking configurati on.

[0066] Figure 18 is an isometric view of the barbecue illustrated in Figure 1 in the frying pan configuration.

[0067] Figure 19 is & detailed view of the lower periphery of the barbecue illustrated in Figure 1 showing the drip tray in position.

[0068] Figure 20 i s an i sometric view of the barb ecue illustrated in Fi gure 1 i n the wok burning configuration.

[0069] Figure 21 is an isometric view of the barbecue illustrated in Figure 1 in the kettle configuration.

[0070] Figure 22 is a plan view of the lower portion of the barbecue illustrated in Figure 1 with^' a kettle or pot support ring in place.

[0071] Figure 23 is an isometric view of the barbecue illustrated in Figure 1 in a smoker configuration.

[0072] Figure 24 is a detailed, side vie of the entry point of the heating device into the lower portion, of the barbecue illustrated in Figure I also showing the water coil inlet. [0073] Figure 25 is a side view of a preferred embodiment of water coil used according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention,

[0074] Figure 26 is a top view of the water coil illustrated in Figure 25.

[0075) Figure 27 is a plan view of the configuration illustrated in Figure 8 with the water coil of the preferred embodiment in use condition.

[0076] Figure 28 is a axonometric view of a lower portion of the combination barbecue according to a preferred embodiment with a container and cover.

[0077] Figure 29 is an alternate axonometric view to that illustrated in Figure 28 with a support wing attached to a leg of the barbecue.

[0078] Figure 30 is a axonometric view of the accommodation barbecue according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention,

[0079] Figure 31 is a plan view of a support wings according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0080] Figure 32 is an exploded axonometric view of an alternative configuratio of the lower portion and hot water coil according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0081] Figure 33 is an axonometric view from above of the configuration il lustrated in Figure 32.

[0082] Figure 34 is an axonometric view from below of the configuration illustrated in Figure 32.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0083] According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention, a combination barbecue is provided,

[0084] The combination barbecue 10 illustrated in the Figures includes a divergent stepped lower portion 13, a gas burner heating device 16 removably locatable within the divergent stepped lower portion 11 and a kettle portion 14 locatable above the lower portion 13 to form the combination barbecue.

[0085] The combination barbecue 10 also includes additional components which can be used together with the lower portion 13, kettle portion 14 and gas burner 16 as required, to achieve different purposes. The additional components will normally include a combination drip tray lid 15, legs 17. to support the barbecue 10 above a surface, a grill plate: 18, flat plate: 19 and half and half plate 20, support devices to support the plates or other devices such as a frying pan or a wok or a kettle, as examples, and a heat exchange coil,

[0086] The illustrated combination barbecu 10 includes a divergent stepped lower portion 1.3 with an open bottom and an ope top as illustrated in Figures 3 and 13 in particular. Both the open bottom and open top are in substanti lly planar planes which are parallel to one another.

[0087] The lower portion 13 has the gas burner 16 remov bly l cated relative thereto in order to provide heat within the lower portion 1 and the barbecue 10. The illustrated lower portion 13 is substantially circular when viewed in plan. According to the preferred embodiment, a single step is proyided over the height of the lower portion. As illustrated in Figure 1.3 in particular, the step divides the lower portion 13 into a lower divergent section 21 and an upper divergent section 22.

[0088] The lower divergent section 21 diverges radially upwardly. A first upwardly extending and outwardly diverging wall is provided defining the lower divergent section 21 with a substantiall annular, laterally radiatin step wall 23 at an upper end thereof.

[0089] A second upwardl extending and outwardly diverging wall extends from an outer edge of the radiating step wall 23. The second wall also radiates outwardly from a central axis of the lower portion 13 but typically, at a steeper angle than the lower divergent section 21.

[0090] A land 24 extends radially outwardly from an upper edge of the upper divergent section 22 which is a particularly useful for resting portions of other components on in order to locate them relative to the lower portion 13 ,

[0091] According to the illustrated embodiment, openings ar proyided through the wall of the lower divergent section 21 in order to mount the gas burner relative thereto. These openings are provided towards a lower edge of the lower portion 13 and are normally spaced about the lower portion 1.3.

[0092] One or more pi ns 25 extend through the openings in the wall of the lower portion and engage with supports on the gas burner assembly. Cotter pins o spring pins 26 are used through or about the pins 25 inside the lower portion 13 in order to prevent or minimise accidental dislodgemeiit of the at gas burner assembly from the lower portion 13. [00933 A portion of the wall of the lower portion adj acent to and in communication with the open bottom of the lower portio 13 is absent to form a scallop opening 27 in the sidewall. This allows the gas burner 16 to be inserted into position within the lower opening and have a portion of the gas burner 16 e ending laterally through the scallop opening 27.

[0094] The gas burner 16 illustrated in Figure 5 in particular, i s of a type having a substantially circular or annular body with a pattern of outlets therein and an elongate supply stem 28 in order to supply gas to the outlets, extending normally from one side of the circular or annular body. This type of gas burner is. relatively widely conyentionally available. As illustrated i the Figures, the supply stem 28 is inserted into the scallop opening 27 in the lower portion with the circular body of the gas burner 16 located within the lower portion 13 through the open bottom of the portion.

[0095] Normally, appropriate connections are^' provided on the supply stem in order to allow connection of the gas burner 16 to a gas supply, normally in the form of a gas bottle 11 or similar using one or more gas lines 12,

[0096] As illustrated in Figure 5, the gas burner 16 may be provided with a support plate 29 in order to close the opening at the bottom of the lower portion 13, According to the illustrated embodiment, the support pl te 29 has openi gs 30 therein and is radially larger than the opening in the lower portion 13 ,

[0097] The support plate 29 is provided with upstand portions 31 about the periphery of the support plate 29 in order that the upstands 31 can be receive the lower portion 13. The upstands

3 1 are substantially parallel to the lower upwardly extending and outwardly diverging wall. Each upstand 31 has an opening therethrough The pins 25 described above are inserted through the an openi ng in one of the upstands 3 1 and through the lower portion 13 in order to locate the gas burner 16 within the lower portion 13, This arrangement is illustrated in more detail i Figure 24.

[0098] According to a particularly preferred embodiment illustrated in Figures 24 to 27, a secondary heatin device in the form of a heat exchange coil 32 through which water can flow in order to heat the water in the coil 32. One or more Supports 33 are provided to maintain the coil

32 in. its shape and also to support rotations of the coil 32 in a spaced apart configuration for more effective heat transfer. The coil 32 is normally formed from a single length of tube which is wound in a helical shape and an inlet 34 to the coil and a outlet 35 from the coil are provided, with appropriate connections. Figure 27 shows the coil 32 supported on the supports 33 above t e gas burner 16 within the lower portion 13. [0099] The inlet 34 to the coil and the outlet 35 from the coil both extend out of the bottom of the lower portion through the openings 30 in the support plate 20. As illustrated in Figure 27, the coil 32 is located directly above the gas burner 16 and is adapted to heat the water as the water travels through the coil 32.

(00100} A lower chip tray/lid is also provided in the illustrated embodiment. The lower drip tray as illustrated in Figures 1 and 10 is circular, matching the

13 and the kettle portion 14 of the barbecue. The lower drip tray is radially larger than the upper end of the lower portion and the open end of the kettle portion.

[0100] There will typically be an upstanding wall 36 extending about the drip tray 15 which is continuous but spaced inwardly from the edge of the drip tray sufficiently to allow the drip tray to be converted for use as a lid if necessary. A handle 37 is provided on the opposite side of the drip tray to the upstanding wall 36, particularly for use when the drip trays used as a lid.

[010.1] Normally, the combination barbecue of the present i nvention is mounted on a support frame including a number of legs 17, The legs can be attached to one another or alternati ely, may be attached directly to the lower portion of the combination barbecue. It is preferred that the drip tra 15 is mounted relative to the legs as illustrated in Figure 2. Preferably, one or more support fingers or pins 38 (best illustrated in Figures 11 and 12) extend from each of the legs 17 and the dri tray 15 is adapted to rest on the support fingers or pins 38,

[0102] According to a preferred embodiment, the combination barbecue of the present invention may also include a support ring, !ocatable within the lower portion of the combination barbecue above the gas burner. There are two different configurations of support ring illustrated, the first on Figure 9 and adapted to support the plates and the other in Figures 21 and 22 which is used to support a kettle and a wok. Each support ring is typically circular and is adapted to be directly supported by the lower portion, preferably by the annular step wail 23.

[0103] As illustrated in Figures 14 to 16, the grill plate 18, flat plate 19 or half and half plate 20 is inserted into the lower portio 13 onto the support ring illustrated in Figure 9.

[0104] As illustrated in Figure 17, an open support frame 40 may be provided and placed above a grill plate 18 to support, a pizza stone 39 or similar thereon. Normally the open support frame 40 support the pizza stone 39 or simil ar above the grill pi ate 18 in order to allow circulation of heated air beneath the pizza stone 39 or similar.

[0105] The kettle portion 1 has an open end and a closed bottom wall as well as portions of different dimensions over its height. A cylindrical first portion 42 is provided adjacent th open end of the kettle portion 14 which is substantially the same dimension as the upper part of the lower portion 13. The first portion 42 has a peripheral edge which can rest on the upper land of the lower portion 13 as illustrated in Figures 1 to 3. It will normally be of atieast 10 cm in height and more likely between 10 and 40 cm in height although any height could be used.

[0106] The first portion 42 of the kettle portion is hinged to the lower portion 13 in order to allow a user to pivot the kettle portion upwardly from one side as illustrated in a number of Figures. Any configuration of hinge can be used. It is also preferable that the hinge 46 allows easy detachment of the kettle portion from the lower portion.

[0107] A second portion 43 of the kettle portion is spaced concentrically inwardly from the first portion 42, The second portion 43 is also cylindrical but is typically less than 15 cm in height. The closed bottom wall 41 of the kettle portion is in the second portion 43 and will normally be partially spherical, preferably tori spherical. Normally, the second portion is spaced concentrically inwardly from the first portion by an annular wal l 44 linking the first and second portions to give the kettle portion a stepped profile,

[01 8] The kettle portion can be used in either an upright or inverted configuration. When used in an upright configuration, that is with a closed top and an open bottom as illustrated in Figures 1-3 in particular^", the kettle portion preferably forms a lid for the lower portion and thereb forms a kettle-style barbecue. In the inverted configuration, that is with a closed bottom and an open top as illustrated in Figures 1 1 and 12, th kettle portion forms a large pot and the drip tray 15 can be i nverted for use as a lid for this large pot.

[0 09] In the inverted configuration, the second portion 43 of the kettle portion is received partially within the lower portion 13 of the combination barbecue. The annular wall of the kettle portion preferably rests on the annular wall of the lower portion or on the upper land of the lower portion. In this configuration, normally the drip tray 35 is removed from below the lower portio and inverted for use as a l id to close the open end of the kettle portion.

[0110] Preferably a handle 45 is provided on the kettle portion, A closure mechanism 37 is also provided to allow the kettle portion to be attached to the lower portion in order to hold closed. The kettle portion may have one or more openings in one of the walls of the kettle portion in order to vent the kettl e portion.

[0111] In Figure 23. the barbecue is configured as a smoker unit. A support tray 48 is located in the lower portion 16 with a smoking mesh tray 49 above it, Smoking timbers or coals are placed on the support tray 48 and the smoke treats the food on the mesh tray 49 above. The kettle portion 14 is closed when smoking.

[0112] The combination barbecue of the present invention may further include a container 50 with cover 5 1. locatable in or on the drip tray 15 for temporary storage, one form of which is illustrated in Figures 28 to 30, It is preferred that the container 50 with cover 51 is capable of insertion into the lower portion 13 of the combination barbecue as required. The container 50 of the illustrated embodiment is circular having a base wall and a cylindrical sidewall. upstanding from the base wail. According to a preferred embodiment, the cover 51 is partially spherical. t is preferred that the container 50 be sized such that the container 50 can be received within the upstanding wall 36 on the drip tray 16 in order to allow movement of the barbecue without dislodging the container 50,

[0113] It is further preferred that one or more support wings 52 may be provided, particularly in relation to one or more of the legs of the combination barbecue upon which devices used with the barbecue can be located during use. In particular, it is preferred that a support wing 52 be provided that attaches and detaches easily and quickly to an upper portion of one of the legs of the combination barbecue. This will allow items such as a plate or tray containing food to be rested on the support wing whil st using the barbecue to cook the food.

[0114] The attachment mechanism illustrated in the preferred embodiment illustrated in Figure 31 is an L- shaped bracket 53 that is mounted to the support wing 52 at a mounting tube 54. An opening in the bracket 53 is aligned with the tube 54 and. a pin .55 inserted through the aligned openings. A locking member 57 can then be located over the protruding free end 56 of ^■the pin 55 to prevent accidental dislodgement. The wing 52 will normally be. separated from the bracket 53 during the mounting process and attached the components attached to one another, once the bracket 53 is located partially about a leg. of the barbecue.

[0115] An alternative configuration of the lower portion and hot water coil is illustrated in Figures 32 to 34. As can be seen in this particular configuration, the lower portion 13 has an open lower end similar to that illustrated in. Figure 4. However, in contrast to Figure 4, the open lower end of the lower portion in the embodiment illustrated in Figures 32 to 34 is a substantially circular openi to receive the gas burner 16 thereinto,

[0116] The gas burner is provided with an attachment bracket 61 as illustrated in Figure 32 and 34 in particular. The attachment bracket supports the gas burner 16 and is attached to the lower end of the lower portion, about the opening. [0117] The hot water coil of this configuration al so differs to the previousl explained embodiments. As can be seen from figure 32 in particular, the hot water coil 62 i s now provided within or substantially within a heat transfer casing 63, The easing 63 is generally rectangular and the coil 64 extends from an inlet 65 to an outlet 66 in a serpentine shape within the casing 63. As best illustrated in Figures 33 and 34, the inlet 65 and the outlet 66 from the coil extend through, a lower wall of the lower portion 13 where they can be sui tably attached to a water supply and delivery system in order to heat the water in the coil 62 as it flows through the coil using the gas burner 16 which is provided directly below the casin 63.

[0118] The portions the combination barbecue of the present invention are attached to on another in any way using any mechani sm. Thi s will typically all ow the combination barbecue to be collapsed as much as possible of the portions to be detached from one another to change the configuration of the combination barbecue fo different uses.

[011 ] In the present specification and claims (if any), the word 'comprising' and its derivatives including 'comprises' and 'compri se' include each of the stated integers but does not exclude the inclusion of one or more further integers,

[0120] Reference throughout this specification to 'one embodiment' or 'an embodiment' means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention, Thus, the appearance of the phrases ^*in one embodiment' or 'in an embodiment' in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.

Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more combinations.

Claims

1. A combination barbecue including a divergent stepped lower portion, at 1 east one beating device removably locatable within the divergent stepped lower portion and a kettle portion loeatable above the lower portion to form the combination barbecue.

2. A combination barbecue as claimed in claim 1 wherein the divergent stepped lower portion has a lower divergent section and an upper divergent section with the lower divergent section being smaller in dimension than the upper divergent section.

3. A combination barbecue as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2 wherein at least one upper land portion is located at or towards an upper end of the divergent stepped lower portion,

4. combination barbecue as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the

divergent stepped lower portion has an open bottom defined by at least one edge and a portion of the at least, one edge is removed to form a scallop opening, in the edge.

5. A combination barbecue as claimed in claim 4 wherein the scallop opening allows the at least one heating device to be inserted into position within the lower opening and have a portion of the heating device extending laterally through the scallop opening.

6. A combination barbecue as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the at least one heating device includes a primary- gas burner.

7. A combination barbecue as claimed in claim 6 wherein the at least one heating device

includes one or more secondary heating devices including a heat exchange coil through which water can flow in order to heat the water in the heat exchange coil, the heat exchange coil located above the primary gas burner.

8. A combination barbecue as claimed in any one of the preceding claims further including a lower drip tray which corresponds^' with the divergent stepped lower portion and the kettle portion, radially larger than an upper end of the divergent stepped lower portion and an open end of the kettle portion to allow the dri tray to be converted for use as a lid,

9. A combination barbecue as claimed in any one of the preceding claims further including a support ri ng locatable within the lower portion of the combination barbecue above the at least one heating device against a wall of the divergent stepped lower portion.

10. A combination barbecue as claimed in any one of the preceding claims further including at least one open grill plate.

1 1. A combination barbecue as claimed in any one of the preceding claims further including at least one barbecue plate,

12. A combination barbecue as claimed in any one of the preceding claims further including an open support frame to he inserted into the divergent stepped lower portion to support a pizza stone or similar thereon,

13. A combination barbecue as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherei the kettl e portion has a closed end and an open end arid is used in an upright configuration to form a lid for the divergent stepped lower portion and thereb forms a kettle-style barbecue.

14. A. combination barbecue as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the kettle portion has a closed end and an open end and is used in an inverted configuration, that is with a closed bottom and an open top to form a large pot.

15. A combination barbecue as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the kettle portion has an open end and a closed end as well as portions of different dimensions over its height.

16. A combination barbecue as cl aimed in claim 15 wherein a first porti on of a first dimension is provided adjacent the open end of the kettle portion which is substantially the same dimension as an upper part of the divergent stepped lower portion.

17. A combination barbecue as claimed in claim 15 wherein a second portion of second

dimension spaced concentrically inwardly from the first portion is provided adjacent the closed end of the kettle portion.

18. A combination barbecue as claimed in claim 17 wherein the second portion of the kettle portion is received partially within the divergent stepped lower portion of the combinatio barbecue.

19. A combination barbecue as claimed in any one of the preceding claims further including one or more support wings is provided that attaches and detaches easily and quickly to the combination barbecue.

20. A combination barbecue as claimed in any one of the preceding claims mounted on a le assembly to space the combination barbecue above the ground surface.